Yesterday, the Government announced that mandatory housing measures for all poultry and captive birds are to be introduced to all areas of England from 7th November, following a decision by the United Kingdom’s Chief Veterinary Officer.
The housing measures legally require all bird keepers to keep their birds indoors and to follow stringent biosecurity measures to help protect their flocks from the disease, regardless of type or size.
The order will extend the mandatory housing measures already in force in the hot spot areas of Suffolk, Norfolk and parts of Essex to the whole of England following an increase in the national risk of bird flu in wild birds to very high.
The Chief Veterinary Officer is encouraging all bird keepers across England to prepare for the measures, including taking steps to safeguard animal welfare, consulting their private vet and expanding housing where necessary.
More information on this announcement can be found by clicking here.